Libraries

Book binding

Libraries and archives receive books and other paper documents which should remain in good physical condition for as long as their content is worth preserving. Based on their judgement of the likely wear and tear of an item and its expected lifetime, libraries and archives can decide on how each publication ought to be protected.

For example, a publication that is expected to be heavily used over short periods of time but which might not be retained permanently will require a different quality of binding from that for a publication that is expected to receive occasional light use but that may need some protection during storage.

ISO 14416 provides a selection of binding methods and materials to assist libraries and archives decide how each book and publication is to be protected.

In addition to promoting appropriate binding qualities, the standard is designed to help binderies rationalize their production and ensure continuity of supply of binding materials. Binderies, for example, will be able to offer lower prices if they receive larger orders for similar types of work and materials, and libraries and archives will in turn be able to use the most suitable binding more extensively as a protection for their books.

ISO 14416 is applicable to first-time hard-cover binding of published and unpublished materials, and any other documents requiring this type of protection, as well as the rebinding of hard-cover monographs, serials and any other documents.

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